Finalization!

Yesterday we all got up very early in the morning, got dressed up, and went to meet our lawyer by 8:00 am. We signed some official looking papers, watched some office ladies coo over the kids, and walked to the courthouse. Emerald was quite impressed with all the rides in the elevators. We waited around until our lawyer could find a judge (all of about 10 minutes) and then we walked right up to the judge. It is a little intimidating going into court especially when you have a sleepy (and loud) 8 month old, and a chatty, interested 2 year old. The judge was very patient, even giggled when Calvin began blowing raspberries, and he addressed Emerald. All told, it took about 5 minutes in the courtroom (including picture time) and it was done. Calvin in now officially ours and officially Calvin Charles Pankewich. There was another family right afer us that had about 20 family members. It seemed a little silly, since it all happened so fast. Our lawyer told us that last Friday was the "adoption day" for the month. He helped finalize 31 adoptions. I have to say, though, that the description of their day was less personal. I like how our day turned out.

Both Calvin and Emerald received a stuffed animal from the judge. The police officer handed it to them, and Emerald asked if he was the judge. It was all very cute. Of course, Emerald already had Mango with her, so we ended up with more animals than kids :)

We spent the rest of the day with Daddy, as he took his last day of vacation from UST. We tried to go ride the train, but it was closed. Then both kids fell asleep in the car (too cute) from getting up too early. We went home for naps for 3 of 4 of us. Then we went out to eat BBQ, Daddy's favorite. Calvin got his first taste of ice cream and liked it. We went to pick out pumpkins and came home to work on more moving stuff and get a real nap for the kids. Trying to get pictures with the pumpkins wasn't so easy. Calvin was distracted by the hay touching his legs, and Emerald was just too busy.